Holidays Around The World
Did you know that in Australia they celebrate something called Boxing Day? Australia along with many Commonwealth Nations celebrates Boxing Day.
Boxing Day is a holiday celebrated the day after Christmas. It originated as a holiday to give gifts to the poor. The kids are going to celebrate by making gifts. Boxing Day also falls on St. Stephen’s Day.
We talked with the students about local ways they can give to help not just the poor, but local non-profits. Today, is also GIVING TUESDAY>
We read Great Joy by Kate DiCamillo
Great Joy
illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline
Candlewick Press, October 2007
Picture book, ISBN 978-0-7636-2920-5
It is just before Christmas when an organ grinder and monkey appear on the street corner outside Frances’s apartment. Frances can see them from her window and, sometimes, when it’s quiet, she can hear their music. In fact, Frances can’t stop thinking about them, especially after she sees the man and his monkey sleeping outside on the cold street at midnight.
When the day of the Christmas pageant arrives, and it’s Frances’s turn to speak, everyone waits silently. But all Frances can think about is the organ grinder’s sad eyes—until, just in time, she finds the perfect words to share.
We had snacks by the fire and enjoyed Apple Cider. Apple Cider meant that we read the great read by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky, Apple Trees to Cider, Please!
The kids were also presented their December reading charts. Remember 50 Brag Tags on the 1st of each month gets you $50 off their monthly tuition fees for DRC.
To learn more about Australia
The students were given Brag Tags for Classroom Kindness. They said courage, caring, inclusive, and integrity.
Courage:
Being brave when facing new or difficult circumstances.
Caring:
Feeling and showing concern for others.
Inclusive:
Including others, inviting them in, and welcoming them with open arms.
Integrity:
Acting in a way you know to be right and kind in all situations.